With country’s population expanding at an alarming pace, the strain on already limited national resources is becoming increasingly visible with Pakistan’s population exceeding 255 million, the challenge is no longer statistical; it is visible in every overcrowded classroom, every congested road, Restaurants and every job queue, education and healthcare to housing, employment, transport and water supply, nearly every sector is under immense pressure. infrastructure is struggling to cope with the influx of people migrating from rural areas. If this trend remains unchecked, it could significantly undermine Pakistan’s long-term economic and social progress.

Beyond education, social customs also play a decisive role in determining family size. While traditional family planning campaigns and awareness drives remain important, Pakistan now requires more innovative and out-of-the-box solutions that are both socially acceptable and economically effective. One of the most practical approaches is the introduction of an incentive-based two-child policy instead of coercive or punitive measures. Rather than imposing legal restrictions, the government should encourage smaller family sizes through positive economic incentives. Families with one or two children could be given priority in government housing schemes, utility subsidies, educational scholarships and social welfare benefits. Such a policy would shape public behavior through financial motivation and avoid the resistance that often accompanies compulsory measures.

Another transformative and long-term solution lies in........

© Pakistan Observer